Aaliyah Tribute Barbie Doll Sells Out Within Hours of Release

Aaliyah, the legendary R&B singer whose music and influence continue to resonate more than two decades after her passing, was honored by Mattel with a limited-edition Barbie doll. The doll, launched as part of Mattel’s Barbie Music Series, sold out almost immediately upon release, demonstrating the enduring love and admiration fans have for the late artist.

The collectible Barbie was released on what would have been Aaliyah’s 46th birthday, January 16, 2025. Fans rushed to purchase the doll, which was available on Mattel Creations—a platform designed for exclusive collectible items—at a retail price of $55. The doll also briefly appeared on Target’s website, where preorders quickly sold out, and additional stock is expected to be available on January 26. For fans in the UK, the doll is listed on Amazon’s UK site.

A Tribute to an Icon

The Aaliyah Barbie pays tribute to the singer’s groundbreaking career and unforgettable style. Dressed in an outfit inspired by the music video for her hit song “One in a Million,” the doll features black faux-leather pants, a matching crop top, a zipped vest, detached sleeves, and her signature statement sunglasses. This look captures the essence of Aaliyah’s bold and trendsetting style, which played a major role in defining 1990s R&B fashion.

The Barbie Music Series, aimed at adult collectors, celebrates music legends who have left an indelible mark on the industry. Other icons featured in the series include Stevie Nicks, Gloria Estefan, and Tina Turner. Aaliyah’s inclusion in this collection highlights her impact on the music world, even decades after her untimely death.

Aaliyah’s Legacy Lives On

Aaliyah, affectionately known as “Baby Girl” to her fans, was born in Brooklyn and raised in Detroit. She rose to fame in the 1990s with her debut single, “Back and Forth,” and became a key figure in the R&B genre. By the time she was just 22 years old, Aaliyah had released four platinum albums—three of them posthumously—and starred in several films.

Tragically, Aaliyah’s life was cut short on August 25, 2001, when her plane crashed in the Bahamas shortly after she finished filming the music video for her song “Rock the Boat.” Despite her passing, her music and influence continue to inspire fans and artists around the world.

Collaboration with Family

The Aaliyah Barbie was developed in collaboration with Aaliyah’s brother, Rashad Haughton, who played a significant role in ensuring the doll honored her memory and spirit. In a press release from Mattel, Haughton reflected on his sister’s love for Barbie dolls as a child, sharing how Aaliyah would spend hours making her dolls sing, dance, and perform imaginary concerts.

“It’s clear to me now that she was imagining dreams that would eventually become reality when she embarked on a career in entertainment at just fifteen years old,” Haughton said. He added that Aaliyah would have been thrilled to see her legacy celebrated in a way that inspires fans to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams.

A Message from Mattel

Krista Berger, senior vice president of Barbie, expressed her excitement about honoring Aaliyah as part of the Barbie Music Series. “Mattel is honored to induct the legendary Aaliyah, an artist who redefined the R&B genre and left an indelible mark on the ‘90s music scene, as our latest honoree,” she said.

Berger noted that the tribute comes 30 years after the release of Aaliyah’s debut single, “Back and Forth.” She invited fans to celebrate the singer’s remarkable legacy and the lasting impact she made on the music industry.

Fans Celebrate the Release

The quick sellout of the Aaliyah Barbie doll highlights the deep connection her fans still feel to her music and legacy. Social media was flooded with posts from fans celebrating the release and sharing their excitement about owning a piece of memorabilia that honors the iconic singer.

For those who missed out on the initial release, the doll will become available again later in January. However, the overwhelming demand underscores the lasting influence of Aaliyah and the respect she commands even today.

Conclusion

The Aaliyah tribute Barbie is more than just a collector’s item; it’s a celebration of a trailblazing artist whose music and style continue to inspire millions. By bringing her spirit to life in the form of a Barbie doll, Mattel has ensured that Aaliyah’s legacy will be cherished for generations to come. For fans, this tribute is a reminder of the timeless magic Aaliyah brought to the world of music and entertainment.